NOMURA MASUMI
In the 2024 Taiga drama “Hikaru Kimi e,” actress Masumi Nomura garnered attention for her role as Sawa, a friend of the protagonist Mahiro. Known for her appearances in dramas and variety shows, Nomura shared her experiences from her time in Kagoshima and her heartfelt connection to the region.
One memorable spot from my childhood is the “Daiei” store that used to be in Kamoike. There was a sitting area near the escalator and crepe shop, where I have fond memories. I even have photos from that time, making it a nostalgic place for me.
(Editor’s Note: The Kamoike Daiei later became Aeon Kagoshima Kamoike Store, which closed in August 2024 due to redevelopment. It was a cherished spot for locals, with many visiting to bid farewell before its closure.)
I’ve always loved Hirakawa Zoo, both as a child and as an adult. The African Zone near the entrance, where giraffes and rhinos roam against the backdrop of Sakurajima, is uniquely Kagoshima. It’s my favorite spot to start a zoo visit and take photos.
I often went to Dolphin Port near the ferry terminal and aquarium with friends. We’d just hang out and have fun. Sometimes, we’d take the ferry to Sakurajima on a whim since it’s only a 15-minute ride. Kagoshima’s proximity to nature is one of its greatest charms.
Everything! Living in Tokyo, I often think about how Kagoshima offers fresher, more affordable meat and seafood. I always plan to eat as much as I can when I visit. My go-to places are “Saisho” in Korimoto for eel and “Toriya Yamaguchi” behind Kagoshima-Chuo Station for yakitori, made with delicious Kuro Satsuma chicken.
For drinks, I love “Suke,” a bar in Tenmonkan. They let you choose from various Kiriko glasses, and the atmosphere is perfect for a second or third stop.
I love sweets, too. “Shirokuma” always catches my eye, but it’s too big for me to finish alone. I often buy “Kasutadon” as gifts when returning to Tokyo. I enjoy it half-frozen, and I highly recommend trying it that way. Another popular gift is Festivalo’s “Lovely,” which never disappoints.
I always want to travel, especially when I’m looking for change or excitement. Before the pandemic, I’d often take solo trips to Kyoto or nearby places in Kanto by train.
Once, at Okage Yokocho near Ise Jingu, I bought a famous minced cutlet. While holding it in one hand and trying to take a photo, a bird swooped in and snatched it! It was so embarrassing that I couldn’t bring myself to buy another one.
The local dialect and intonation. For example, hearing a store clerk say, “Desu desu” as a response felt so nostalgic. I also admire how people in Kagoshima value their ancestors and often visit graves, reflecting their deep compassion and kindness.
Kagoshima folks are also friendly and a bit nosy in a good way, making it easy to connect with them. I encourage visitors to embrace this warmth and enjoy the amazing food, from fish to meat and vegetables. Kagoshima truly has it all—please make the most of your visit!
Special interview